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Traditional promotion and relegation to and from the top-tier Prem will be scrapped from the start of the 2026-27 season after landmark changes to English rugby were voted through.<\/b><\/p>\n
Instead of earning a play-off shot at replacing the Prem’s bottom side by finishing top of the second-tier Championship and meeting the top flight’s minimum standards, ambitious clubs will instead apply to join and be judged across a range of criteria.<\/p>\n
Bids will be assessed on standard of play, finances, investment potential, infrastructure and how their geographical base could help spread the Prem’s appeal.<\/p>\n
The league hopes to expand to 12 teams, from its current 10, for the 2029-30 season.<\/p>\n
“It’s long been clear that the previous system was not delivering the financial sustainability or long-term confidence the professional game needs,” said Mike McTighe, the chair of the Men’s Professional Rugby Board.<\/p>\n
“We know there will be scrutiny, and rightly so. The proof will be in delivery: in improved stability, in renewed investor confidence, in tangible benefits to the women’s game and in sustained support for community rugby.”<\/p>\n<\/div>\n